Family & Kids Bayou Chattahoochee Valley Jan 16

JANUARY 2016

Wise Choices for Moms & Families

© Giggles And Grins Photography

CHATTAHOOCHEE VALLEY

Cover Sponsor See Page 11

Mickayla’s Place Maternity, Baby Gear and Children’s Clothes up to Size 16

22

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Dr. Cathy Cook

Gentle Dentistry for the Entire Family!

ACCEPTING ALL MAJOR INSURANCES, CARE CREDIT AND OFFERING FINANCIAL OPTIONS

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

Hoo’s Tips

CYBER CHONDRIACS

The availability of medical information online can be quite useful in some cases, such as looking up first aid for a bee sting or finding home remedies for your baby’s diaper rash. However, easy access to enormous amounts of medical information, much of which have not been edited by experts, has led to a condition psychologists are calling ‘cyberchondria.’

'Cyberchondriacs' spend hours researching their symptoms on the internet and often become anxious when even just one of their symptoms matches one associated with a serious condition. Many then avoid making an appointment to see the doctor, either because they decide to treat the condition themselves or because they are afraid the doctor will confirm the diagnosis.

Unfortunately, if a serious, aggressive condition was in fact a correct diagnosis, this delay in treatment can be very harmful. Others who become worried by online search results react by visiting the doctor and requesting expensive tests. Usually, doctors do not order tests unless the set of symptoms matches a condition closely enough to cause concern, but sometimes doctors relent and order the tests to prove to the patient there is nothing to worry about. The unnecessary testing is often not covered by insurance. So not only is time wasted and extra anxiety caused, but the cyberchondriac also faces paying for the expensive tests out of pocket.

Here is how to use online information wisely, without falling into the trap of 'cyberchondria': When looking up medical information online, use online resources that are legitimate and accurate. Information on websites ending in 'gov' or the mayoclinic.org is validated by experts and kept up to date.

Keep anxiety in check by approaching the information online with the right perspective.

Rare conditions are labeled 'rare' because they don't affect many people. There most likely is a much more common and less serious condition that is the correct diagnosis.

If you have a new symptom, take action by scheduling an appointment with your doctor, instead of spending hours on line trying to diagnose yourself.

If necessary, ban yourself from googling medical information for a while, if you sense your worry is spiraling out of control and you are spending a good portion of your free time online.

3

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

4

Tammy Usie Publisher

TheValley.com

Tammy@HooKnows

253-212-7270 Cell

Dear Parents of the Chattahoochee Valley, Welcome to our handy, parenting resource guide. I hope you will find lots of helpful choices on products and services for you and your family, along with some informative articles, handy resources and fun features.

If you like our magazine, then you’ll love our website, www.

HooKnowsTheValley.com. There you can read our magazine online, find other resources and use our SHOPPING DIRECTORY. This virtual buying guide provides our readers with a comprehensive list of local, family-friendly businesses. Plus with the ability for consumers to leave reviews on these businesses, it will help other parents make buying decisions. I invite you to go leave a few reviews to help us build this resource and share them with other parents like yourself.

AD DEADLINES

The 1st of the month for the next month’s issue

Tammy Usie

HOO KNOWS SPECIAL FEATURES Hoo’s crafty.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 9

HOO’S hungry.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 30

HOO’S Fun.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 8

hoo’s inspired.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 7

HOO’S Healthy.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 5

HOO’S learning.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 29

HOO’S helpful.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 13

hoo’s parenting.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 23

HOO KNOWS® Community Digest does not assume responsibility for products and services listed in this magazine. Ads may not be reproduced, in any way, without written consent. HOO KNOWS® is a trademark of Cinah Media Group LLC. For information on operating your own digest, contact us at 1-888-HOO-5609.

Where to Find HOO? Publix: Columbus & Phenix City Chick fil-A: Columbus & Phenix City Starbucks: Columbus Family & Kids of the Chattahoochee Valley

PLUS: Check your local kid-friendly doctors & dentists, attractions, restaurants & retail shops.

Children attending FT Benning daycares, preschools & elementary schools each receive a copy, as well as elementary students at most all private schools in Columbus & Phenix City...plus all kids attending major daycares and preschools.

www.HooKnowsTheValley.com

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

HOO’s HEALTHY Liquid medicines now in metric only Last month I wrote about teaching young children how to swallow pills, this month let’s look at liquid medication.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recently issued a new policy statement encouraging parents, physicians and pharmacists to use only metric measurements on prescriptions, medication labels and dosing cups to ensure that kids receive the correct dose of medicine.

In other words, no measuring medications with teaspoons or tablespoons, and especially not the ones from the cereal drawer! Because ordinary spoons come in many sizes, they’re not precise enough to measure a child’s medication. For babies, toddlers and young children, a small error

The

5

Kids

Doctor

Sue Hubbard, MD kidsdr.com

in dosing, especially if repeated for many doses, can be toxic.

These recommendations also mean that doctors, like myself, need to prescribe medications in metric units like milliliters, rather than by teaspoons. We also need to instruct parents to the use of metricdosing devices in place of measuring devices with confusing markings, such as those with both teaspoons, tablespoons and milliliters.

Under the new guidelines, liquid medication should come with an appropriately sized dosing device and manufacturers are required to eliminate labeling, instructions and dosing devices that contain measuring units other than metric units -- no more 1 teaspoon, but rather 5 milliliters.

6

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

SHOPPING guide activities Academy Dance Center...................... 8 Chattahoochee Valley Libraries....30 Clement Arts....................................... 15 East West Karate & MMA................... 2 IFM Arts Academy.............................20 Launch Pad Athletes.........................24 My Gym..................................................11 Performance Dance Centre............... 5 RiverCenter for Performing Arts... 31 Schwob Music Prep...........................27 The Columbus Museum................... 15

Childcare/ education TELL THEM

Brookstone School.............................26 Calvary Christian...............................28 First Presbyterian Day.....................28 SENT YOU! Grace Christian School....................28 Kumon...................................................28 Lakewood Child Development ......26 Oasis After School Program........... 18 St. Anne-Pacelli..................................28 St. Luke Schools.................................27 Sylvan Learning Center...................29 Westminster Christian.....................29

healthcare Columbus Counseling...................... 12 Columbus Spine & Performance... 19 Cook Dental Care.................................. 2 James Lopez, DDS..............................24 Pediatric After Hours.......................... 5 Pediatric Dentistry of Columbus...22 Pediatrics at Brookstone Center...20 Rivertown Pediatrics........................23 Stork Vision Ultrasound.................... 3

Home/ Handy Sparkles Cleaning Service.............. 19 Turfscapes Lawncare........................ 19 Warehouse World Storage............... 19

Shopping/ Retail Baby Elements......................................9 Giggles and Grins Photography.... 19 Jessica Fowler Photography............9 Mickayla’s Place - Resale.................11 Once Upon A Child - Resale...........24 Wee Blessings..................................... 15

food & beverage Chick-fil-A............................................20 Chill Yogurt Cafe.................................. 8 Stevi B’s Pizza Buffet........................20

TELL THEM

SENT YOU!

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

HOO’s INSPIRED

art classes support local

adoptions

It is often said that art imitates life, but some art can even support life. Local charity, Clement Arts, engages children and families through the arts in support of adoption and foster care. Located near the RiverMill Event Center in Bibb City, Clement Arts conducts dance and music classes for kids in order to raise funds for local adoptive families.

The classes are also offered tuitionfree to children in foster care in the Columbus and Phenix City area. Art classes are being developed for this spring.

“Adoption can be a complicated and at times difficult process for families,” said Clement Arts founder, Brad Griffith. “The average cost of an adoption is around $30,000. We want to help ease that financial burden and be an encouragement to these families.” In addition to kids classes, Clement Arts also hosts artistic events in the community to raise adoption funds.

Clement Arts classes are open to all children, but they also provide a means of support for children in foster care. “The kids in our foster care system have so much potential,” says Griffith. “But they don’t always have the same opportunities to develop their gifts. We want to help unleash that creative power in a way that builds up children. For a child whose world has been upended, the arts can be a means of stabilizing and healing.”

Watch for upcoming Clement Arts events in months ahead. A new semester of dance, music, and art classes begins mid-January. Clement Arts’ annual “Poets, Painters, & Storytellers” event featuring 2016 headliner, Ellie Holcomb, will be hosted in Columbus on February 27.

Learn more by following Clement Arts on Facebook or by visiting clement-arts.org.

7

8

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

HOO’s FUN

snowflake copycat Use the grid to copy the picture, one square at a time. Count carefully.

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

9

HOO’s CRAFTY

homemade borax

snowflakes

Bringing snowflakes inside individually has always been impossible, until now. This cute, easy craft brings a little magic and chemistry right to your kitchen.

Directions Start by bending pipe cleaners into snowflakes (or other shapes), just keep them smaller than your jar. Then, use string more than half the length of your jar, to tie your snowflakes to the stick/pencil. Now, mix 1/3 cup of Borax to 2 cups of boiling water. Stir until the Borax has dissolved, and add food coloring (optional), and pour the solution in the jar. Hang your shape in the solution, without letting it touch the sides, then rest your stick on top of the jar. Now let your snowflake sit overnight, and you will wake up to a beautiful creation. *You can reuse the

solution to make more snowflakes, by reheating until the Borax melts.*

supplies Borax pipe cleaners water popsicle stick/pencil empty jar scissors/ string food coloring measuring cup

10

Dining Deals

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

With deals this good, save the mess and dine out!

MONDAY

thursday

Chick-fil-A, Phenix City

Captain D’s

5-8pm: Free kid’s meal with regular priced combo

Chick-fil-A, Wynnton Rd

5-8pm: $.99 kid’s meal with regular priced combo

Get 2 free kid’s meals with purchase of an adult entree. Dine in only

MOE’s Southwest Grill

Chill Yogurt Cafe & Pizzeria

5-9pm: Free kid’s meal per $5 minimum adult entree Ryan’s Family Steakhouse Thursday Nights: Kids 11 and under eat for $1.99

Sweet Frog Yogurt

saturday

Kids 12 & under eat free (1 topping 8” pizza & drink) with purchase of adult entree (11” pizza and a drink). Limit 1 per adult. Dine in only.

6-8pm. Buy one yogurt mix, get one 50% off

Zaxby’s 5-8pm: Free kid’s meal with per adult entree

Tuesday Atlanta Bread Company

5pm-close: Free kid’s meal with an adult meal Chill Yogurt Cafe & Pizzeria Buy one regular 11” pizza, get one of equal or less value at 50% off with valid school ID. Limit 1 per customer, with ID only.

Denny’s

4-10pm: Up to two free kid’s entrees with adult entree. For kids 10 and under

Steak & Shake Free kid’s meal with every $8 purchase

sunday Steak & Shake

Free kid’s meal with every $8 purchase

Stevi B’s Pizza

Kids eat for .99 after 4pm

Texas Roadhouse

Sundays: Kids 12 & under get Jr. Kids Meal for $1.99 with adult entree (certain holidays are excluded)

Willy T’s

TGIF Friday’s

11-5pm: 1 free kid’s meal per regular meal purchase

Willy T’s

everyday

3-10pm: Kids under 13 eat free with adult entree 4-9pm: 1 free kid’s meal per regular meal purchase

wednesday Applebee’s Kids meals are half off with the purchase of an adult entree. Limit: 4 kids per adult

Golden Corral

Kids 3 & under eat free with adult meal purchase

Hartz Chicken Buffet

Children 3 & under eat free with purchase of an adult entree. Kids ages 5-7 get discounted prices

PhoVy

Free kid’s meal when you show their “Family & Kids” ad in this issue

All locations are Columbus, GA unless noted. Specials are subject to change without notice.

Please verify them directly before dining. If you know of a kids’ special not listed here, contact Tammy@HooKnowsTheValley.com.

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

11

Millions of kids agree. . .

For a Sweet ‘16, Start Your New Year at My Gym! (706) 507-2966 • mygym.com/columbus MyGymColumbus

HOO’S PLUGGED IN WWW.HoOKNOWSTHEVALLEY.COM

© GIGGLES AND GRINS PHOTOGRAPHY

from one child to another (sizes newborn to 16)

Buying Days Mon - Thurs 10 AM - 5 PM Drop off any day

Store Hours Mon - Fri: 9 AM - 7 PM Saturday: 10 AM - 6 PM Sunday: Closed

a children’s resale shop

706-221-1154 I 2401 Whittlesey Rd I Columbus, GA 31909

12

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Thursday, Jan. 21st 7:00 - 9:00 pm @ Calvary Baptist Church 7556 Old Moon Rd. Columbus, GA 31909

Tickets $30 per couple, available at the church.

Details at thetruthlife.com a fundraiser for:

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

Hoo’s helpful PREVENTING TEEN ALCOHOL ABUSE

Teen alcohol use can have deadly and devastating consequences. The brain is undergoing its final steps of development during the teenage years, and alcohol abuse can impair this development. Also, teens who drive after consuming alcohol may be involved in automobile accidents. Take steps early, in the tweenage years, to prevent teen alcohol use.

Build a strong relationship with your child Building a strong, supportive relationship with your child will help him feel good about himself. He will know you care about him and accept him. Spend time with your child and keep an open line of communication with him.

Forming a strong bond with your child makes it less likely he will give into peer pressure, and more likely he will have open and honest conversations with you about what is going on in his life.

Start early and set your expectations It may be hard to imagine a 9 year old trying alcohol, but if you keep quiet about alcohol use until the early teen years, your tween may assume your silence means that it is acceptable to drink. In addition, even though teens are notorious for being rebellious, studies show that teens want to feel like they have the approval of their parents. Share your values with your child and inform him of how you expect him to conduct himself. Let him know that no matter how much peer pressure he experiences, it is never acceptable to drink alcohol or use drugs.

Keep in mind that you are a role model for your tween. Your own behavior should reflect the values you are trying to teach him. Drink responsibly, if you do drink, and never drink and drive.

Know your tween’s friends and help him make the right ones Encourage your tween to spend time with kids whose parents have expectations and values that are similar to yours. Your tween is less likely to give in to peer pressure and try alcohol in an effort to ‘fit in’ if he feels accepted by a group of close friends who share his values. Get to know your tween’s friends and the parents of his friends.

When your tween spends time away from you, know where is he going and who he will be with.

Teach your tween how to stay safe Without going into extremely long lectures, explain the dangers of alcohol use . Center your conversation on your love and concern for your tween and your desire to keep him safe. First of all, you need to teach your tween to just say ‘No’. Discuss different scenarios that could involve him being pressed to use alcohol, giving him plenty of opportunity to ask questions. Saying ‘no’ includes asking questions when offered a drink at a party, like ‘what is in it’ or ‘where did you get it?’ Also, let your tween know that if he is at a party and someone has alcohol, he should ‘just say no’ by leaving right away. Form an agreement with your tween that will allow him to call you when he is in an uncomfortable situation, and you will pick him up, no questions asked. Make sure he knows to never accept a ride from someone who has been drinking.

There is no need to try to fit all the information and teaching about underage alcohol use into one session. Instead, try to look for opportunities in everyday conversation to discuss it.

Parent Resources: National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism http://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/MakeADiff_HTML/makediff.htm

MADD http://www.madd.org/underage-drinking

13

A Page In A Book

14

Recommending the Best Books

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

for Children and Teens By Gerry P. Smith

Picking The Perfect Pet

Kids look past puppy training, kitten teeth, or swampy fish tanks, and straight to the ideal bond they will have with their pet. But animals, just like people, aren’t made to order. Opening our hearts to a new pet begins a journey of discovery as we and our new family member get to know each other. These titles explore the transition from imagining the perfect pet to the realities of an adopted companion.

The Princess And The Pony

By Kate Beaton (Scholastic)

Princess Pinecone is ready to stake her claim in the kingdom of warriors. All she needs is a strong, valiant steed to carry her into battle.

But her parents present her with a birthday pony that is anything but. Without the strength, size or agility of a fighting horse, their cause may be lost as the duo enters the warriors’ melee. But the little pony reveals a power that may just help them succeed. This title is a laugh out loud celebration of the unlikely pairings that find the common ground and build a strong friendship upon it.

Motor Dog

By Kurt Cyrus and David Gordon (Hyperion / Disney)

With the click of a button, Flip places an online order for his own Motor Dog. Delivered right to the door, Motor Dog comes with its own remote control so his new pet will do exactly what he wants. But their first stroll together reveals a glitch when Motor Dog overrides his programming and a mad chase ensues. Pushing buttons isn’t helping. But when the leash breaks and Motor Dog is free, the real connection between boy and dog begins. With a gentle nod to the twoway street that good relationships are built upon, “Motor Dog” is a high-octane new pet adventure!

The Octopuppy By Martin McKenna (Scholastic) Edgar really wanted a dog. But when his birthday arrived, Jarvis, an octopus, sprang out of the box. Disappointed but undeterred Edgar began a rigorous course of training for Jarvis to teach him all the things that dogs can do. Jarvis obeys every dog command with a cephalopod’s flair for the dramatic, so Edgar takes a big chance and enters Jarvis in a dog show. The disaster that follows leaves a heartbroken Jarvis who has headed for the open sea and it’s up to an enlightened Edgar to find and bring back his missing pal. Delightfully illustrated “The Octopuppy” is guaranteed to open the heart of every potential pet partner to endless possibilities.

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

January 9

Join guest artist Paige Hutchinson as we use clay to create simple versions of objects found by archaeologists.

Story time: 11 A.M., Archaeologists Dig for Clues

by Kate Duke

15

January

16

1 First Day Hike. Noon-4:30pm. $5 park-

ing. Ages 8+. FDR State Park. Hike along the Overlook Loop (3.4 miles). Easy to moderate hike; fdrpark_naturalist@ yahoo.com or gastateparks.com/FDRoosevelt

1

Columbus Ice Rink open for Holiday Public Skating. 4-9pm. www.columbusicerink.org

1-2

Fantasy in Lights. Travel through five miles of larger-than-life lighted scenes on either the Jolly Trolley or in your personal vehicle; Callaway Gardens, Pine Mountain; www.callway gardens.com

2

Puppy Tales. 10:30am. North Columbus Library; www.cvlga.org/kids

2

Home Depot Kids Workshop. 9am-Noon.

Free. Ages 5-12. Columbus store; 706322-9240. Phenix City store; 334-2972045

3

Columbus Ice Rink open for Holiday Public Skating. 4-9pm. www.columbusicerink.org

Librar y activities Chattahoochee Valley www.CVLGA.org

Phenix City-Russell County www.phenixcitylibrary.com

Troup-Harris

www.thclibrary.net

5

MOPS meeting. 9:30-11:30am. Wynnbrook Baptist Church, 500 River Knoll, Columbus; 706-323-4374 or www.wynnbrookbaptist.com

5

MOPS meeting. 9am-Noon. First Presbyterian Church, 1100 First Avenue, Columbus; www.columbusfpc.org/mops

6

Creative Crawlers. 10:30am. A drop-in social hour that encourages children to learn through play and art. Columbus Public Library; cvlga.org/events/kids

15

Minecraft Manie. 4:30pm. Free. Columbus Public Library; cvlga.org/events

15

Cottonmouths vs. Macon. 7:30pm.

Tickets $9-$30. Columbus Civic Center; www.columbusciviccenter.com

16

CSO’s S’MORES Concert. 12:30-3:30pm $3-$5. RiverCenter for the Performing Arts; 706-323-5059 or www.csoga.org

18

Lowes Build & Grow Clinic. 10-11am.

Free. 1st-5th grades. 6750 Veterans Pkwy, Columbus; 706-320-9292

Martin Luther King Day Hike. 1-4pm. $5 parking. Ages 10+. FDR State Park. Meet at WJSP Tower Parking Lot. Hike along the East End Loop Trail (4 moderate miles); fdrpark_naturalist@yahoo.com or gastateparks.com/FDRoosevelt

9

19

9

Second Saturday: Family Fun Day. 10am.

Free. Columbus Museum; edu@columbusmuseum.org

9

Cottonmouths vs. Huntsville. 7:30pm.

Tickets $9-$30. Columbus Civic Center; www.columbusciviccenter.com

12

MOPS meeting. 9am-Noon. First Presbyterian Church, 1100 First Avenue, Columbus; www.columbusfpc.org/mops

13

La Leche League monthly meeting.

10am. Free. Columbus Public Library; lllcolumbusga@gmail.com or www. lllofga.org/columbus.html

13

Creative Crawlers. 10:30am. A drop-in social hour that encourages children to learn through play and art. Columbus Public Library; cvlga.org/events/kids

MOPS meeting. 9:30-11:30am. Wynnbrook Baptist Church, 500 River Knoll, Columbus; 706-323-4374 or www.wynnbrookbaptist.com

19

MOPS meeting. 9am-Noon. First Presbyterian Church, 1100 First Avenue, Columbus; www.columbusfpc.org/mops

19

Face 2 Face Teen Support Group. 6pm.

Free. Ages 13-18. Columbus Counseling Assoc; http://www.ccacolumbus.com/

19

“Annie.” 7:30pm. $49-$59. RiverCenter for the Performing Arts; rivercenter.org

20

Meet Biscuit! Costume Character Storytime. 7pm. Free. Barnes & Noble, 5555 Whittlesey Blvd; barnesandnoble.com

y Events

17

pr o vi d e d in partne r ship with:

20

30

Wednesday

21-23

31

Thursday

Creative Crawlers. 10:30am. A drop-in social hour that encourages children to learn through play and art. Columbus Public Library; cvlga.org/events/kids “To Kill a Mockingbird.” 7:30pm. Springer Opera House; www.springeroperahouse.org

22-23

Cottonmouths vs. Peoria. 7:30pm.

Tickets $9-$30. Columbus Civic Center; www.columbusciviccenter.com

Young Eagles Day at Flightways Columbus. 8:30-11:30am. Free. Ages 8-17.

Columbus Airport; 706-323-6565 or youngeagles.com/flightplan/flight.asp Peter & the Wolf. 5:30pm. RiverCenter for the Performing Arts; rivercenter.org

31

“To Kill a Mockingbird.” 2:30pm. Springer Opera House; www.springeroperahouse.org

24

Weekly Events

26

Family Night at Chick-fil-A, Wynnton Rd. 5-7:30pm. Crafts and fun. Buy a combo and get a kids’ 4-pc meal free. 2421 Wynnton Rd, Columbus

27

Family Night at Chick-fil-A PC. 5-7:30pm.

Crafts and fun. Buy a combo at regular price and get a kids’ 4-pc meal free. 3711 US Hwy 280, Phenix City

22-23

Family Theatre presents A Taffetas Wedding. 7:30pm. $8-$12. 2100 Hamilton Road, Columbus; familytheatre.org “To Kill a Mockingbird.” 2:30pm. Springer Opera House; www.springeroperahouse.org MOPS meeting. 9am-Noon. First Presbyterian Church, 1100 First Avenue, Columbus; www.columbusfpc.org/mops Creative Crawlers. 10:30am. A drop-in social hour that encourages children to learn through play and art. Columbus Public Library; cvlga.org/events/kids

28-30

“To Kill a Mockingbird.” 7:30pm. Springer Opera House; www.springeroperahouse.org

29-30

Family Theatre presents “A Taffetas Wedding.” 7:30pm. $8-$12. 2100 Hamilton Road, Columbus; familytheatre.org

Monday

Tuesday

MOPS meeting. 9am-Noon. First Presbyterian Church, 1100 First Ave, Columbus; www.columbusfpc.org/mops Mom’s Day Out. 9am-12:45pm. $15 per child, $10 siblings; Epworth UMC, 3763 US 280-/431 N, Phenix City; 334-2983186

MOPS & MOPS NEXT. 6-8pm. Philadelphia Baptist Church, 7807 Lee Rd 246, Smith Station; 303-374-4912 or http:// www.pbcministry.com/ Toddler Tales at Barnes & Noble. 10am.

5555 Whittlesey Blvd. 706-653-7880 Mom’s Day Out. 9am-12:45pm. $15 per child, $10 siblings; Epworth UMC, 3763 US 280-/431 N, Phenix City; 334-2983186

Saturday

Market Days on Broadway. 9am-noon, Columbus; 706-596-0111 or www.uptowncolumbusga.com Michael’s Kids Club Meeting. 10amNoon. Ages 3+. See store for details.

Saturday Storytimes at Barnes & Noble.

11am. 5555 Whittlesey Blvd. 706-6537880 Please call ahead to confirm event dates, times and age appropriateness, in case changes were made after the info was obtained. For more event info, visit MuscogeeMoms.com

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

18

There’s no better way to make it through the day than with some tunes, a couple laughs, and someone to listen and listen to. We hear you, we thank you for listening and voting us your READER’S CHOICE favorite radio personalities.

N O’BRIA BEAR WATER S BRIAN OS CHA

REAL PEOPLE. REAL RADIO.

IS CHR

VOT E D FAVO R I T E R A D I O P E R S O N A L I T I E S

PMB-Who Knows The Valley DJ AD-2015:Layout 1 8/10/15 2:14 PM Page 1

PMB

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

19

Moms Marketplace

LOVE ON YOUR LAWN

Turfscapes

LAWN MAINTENANCE & LANDSCAPING COMPANY

COMMERCIAL . RESIDENTIAL . LICENSED . INSURED

DWTURFSCAPES@BELLSOUTH.NET

706-587-4666

1/2 OFF

1ST MONTH WITH NEW ANNUAL CONTRACT

Showcase your business to over 15,000 local moms.

Call Tammy at 253-212-7270.

20 20

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

IFM Arts Academy Piano - Violin - Cello - Art - Dance For children and adults to help them develop their talents and skills for the glory of God.

3400 University Ave. Columbus, GA www.ifmga.org (706) 653-0097

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

HOO’S at the Movies

21 21

ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: THE ROAD CHIP Rated PG | Ok for kids 6+

Through a series of misunderstandings, Alvin (voiced by Justin Long), Simon (Matthew Gray Gubler) and Theodore (Jesse McCartney) come to believe that Dave (Jason Lee) is going to propose to his new girlfriend in Miami -- and dump them. They have three days to get to him and stop the proposal, saving themselves not only from losing Dave, but possibly from gaining a terrible stepbrother. Directed by Walt Becker, this cute family comedy also stars Bella Thorne, Kimberly Williams-Paisley, Kaley Cuoco, Anna Faris and Christina Applegate.

CONCUSSION Rated PG-13 | Ok for kids 13+

The film is based on the David vs. Goliath story of Dr. Bennet Omalu (Will Smith), the forensic neuropathologist who discovered the first football-related brain trauma in a pro player and fought to bring awareness to the public. In his search for the truth behind the devastating malady, Omalu’s quest humanizes the price paid by professional athletes in impact sports, but also by people who challenge the status quo as it exposes the political, cultural and corporate interests that fuel the business of sports. Directed by Peter Landesman, this movie also stars Alec Baldwin, Luke Wilson, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Arliss Howard, Paul Reiser, David Morse and Albert Brooks.

STAR WARS: EPISODE VII: THE FORCE AWAKENS Rated PG-13 | Ok for kids 12+

This installment takes place 30 years after the Rebel Alliance’s victory over the second Death Star. The galaxy is still at war, and a New Republic has arisen, but the First Order has sprung from the ashes of the Galactic Empire. Many of the heroes we all know and love are still active and fighting in the Resistance against this group. They’re joined by new heroes Poe Dameron (Oscar Isaac), a starfighter pilot; Finn (John Boyega), a former First Order Stormtrooper; Rey (Daisy Ridley), a scavenger; and a rolling droid known as BB-8. They’re opposed by powerful new forces, including Captain Phasma (Gwendoline Christie) of the First Order and Kylo Ren (Adam Driver), a mysterious dark side user wielding a lightsaber of unusual design. Directed by J.J. Abrams, and written by Abrams, Michael Arndt and Lawrence Kasdan based on characters by George Lucas.

Krampus PG-13 | Ok for kids 14+

Like a little “scary” with your yuletide festivities? Then “Krampus” is for you. When his dysfunctional family clashes over the holidays, young Max (Emjay Anthony) is disillusioned and turns his back on Christmas.

Little does he know, this lack of festive spirit has unleashed the wrath of Krampus: a demonic force of ancient evil intent on punishing non-believers. All heck breaks loose as beloved holiday icons take on a monstrous life of their own, laying siege to the fractured family’s home and forcing them to stick together to survive. Directed by Michael Dougherty, this thriller also stars Adam Scott, Toni Collette and Conchata Ferrell.

IN THE HEART OF THE SEA PG-13 | Ok for kids 13+

In the winter of 1820, the New England whaling ship Essex was assaulted by a whale of mammoth size and will, with an almost human sense of vengeance. The real-life maritime disaster inspired Herman Melville’s “Moby-Dick,” but that was only half the story. “In the Heart of the Sea” reveals the encounter’s harrowing aftermath, as the ship’s surviving crew is pushed to their limits and forced to do the unthinkable to stay alive. Directed by Ron Howard, this movie stars Chris Hemsworth as the ship’s veteran first mate Owen Chase; Benjamin Walker as its inexperienced Captain, George Pollard; Cillian Murphy as second mate Matthew Joy; and Ben Whishaw as novelist Herman Melville, whose inquiries into the event 30 years later helped bring the story to light.

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

22

HOO’s CUTE

CONTEST Visit our website to enter: w w w. h o o k n o w s t h e v a l l e y. c o m

Madelyn, 4 years Columbus

A’miyah,6 years FT Benning

Christian, 1 year FT Benning

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

WISHING EVERYONE A

2016!

FROM THE PHYSICIANS AND STAFF OF RIVERTOWN PEDIATRICS

HOO’s PARENTING Correcting other Kids If you host playdates or take your child to the playground often, you may occasionally experience a situation where someone else’s child is playing too rough, or won’t share. Here are tips onplaydates how to discipline If some you host or takesomeone your child to else’s child and end problem-behavior, and avoid the playground often, you may occasionally aexperience hostile confrontation with the other parent. a situation where someone else's

child is playing too rough, or won't share. Here are some tips on how to discipline someone else's child and end problem-behavior, and avoid a hostile confrontation with the other parent.

• Take a few seconds to assess the situation carefully to see if it warrants stepping in and correcting the other child right away. It is best to give the other child's mom a chance to correct him first, unless your child is being hurt by another child or the other child is using foul language.

When bringing the problem behavior to the attention of the other mom, stick to the facts to avoid sounding like you are going on the offensive. For example, you could say 'John is enjoying the playdate with Jacob, but Jacob is playing a bit rough and I am concerned the boys will get hurt.'

• Before stepping in to mediate some types of disputes, such as deciding whose turn it is next, allow your school-aged child to have an opportunity to work it out on his own.

• If the other child's mom ignores a harmful misbehavior or if she is not present and you are the playdate host, gently correct the child displaying offensive behavior in a friendly, kind manner. Start out with a positive comment, followed by a suggestion on how to improve his behavior.

For example, you could say 'I am so happy to see everyone is having a good time, but please stay safe by not jumping on the sofa.' If the other child is having a bad day and the gentle correction does not work, it’s probably time to end the playdate or leave the playground.

23

24

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Special Offer for New Patients

706.324.1834

ColumbusKidsDentist.com

FREE doctor exam at initial visit

1834 Warm Springs Road Columbus, Georgia 31904

MIX

Expires February 28, 2016 Please bring or mention this ad at your appointment.

N MATCH

WE BUY & SELL GENTLY USED KIDS’ STUFF!

Located in The Landings at exit 8 off I-185 | 2521 Airport Thruway, Columbus, GA 31904 706.507.3737 | onceuponachildcolumbusga.com |

/onceuponachildcolumbusga

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

GET IN TOUCH WITH TOYS!

25

Cultivating a child’s sense of touch is a vital part of early play as they learn to discern the differences among shape and texture.

The ability to identify shape, texture, temperature and more through touch alone are also important tools in the human toolbox.

Supporting a child’s tactical development with toys that stimulate their sense of touch is easy and accessible with the following recommended items that are right at their fingertips.

Winkle Sensory Ball

(Manhattan Toy)

A baby’s early ability to grasp objects is immediately followed by moving those same objects toward their mouth. Taking its directive from this early instinct, the Winkle Ball from Manhattan Toy features a maze of easily grasped soft plastic loops that are just the right size for little fists to handle and manipulate. Crafted with BPA-free materials, these loops are also safe for mouthing and teething. Combined with a gentle rattle and bright colors, the Winkle Ball maximizes babies’ surplus of sensitivity in their hands and mouths, stimulating their touch and gross motor skill exploration. Once babies get a grip on the Winkle ball, they won’t let it go.

Laundry Jumble Game

(Educational Insights)

For everyone who has had to rummage in the bottom of stuffed luggage or dig into a roomy handbag for just the right item, the Laundry Jumble Game makes perfect sense as an ideal opportunity to cultivate identify-by-touch skills in kids. With a mock clothes dryer, small doll-size articles of clothing are placed inside for players to identify by touch alone as they try to ‘dress’ the animal characters on their game card. In addition to building their vocabulary and matching skills, the Laundry Jumble Game hones fine motor moves as kids use their sense of touch to complete their character’s ensemble.

Textured Tangle

(Tangle Creations)

Kids get the feel for the Textured Tangle immediately as they discover a range of different textures among the eighteen interconnected pieces that bend and weave together in one whole touch toy. The tangle of colorful tubes featuring a variety of raised textures can slowly be uncoiled into a gently twisted circle – and then bent and manipulated back into its tangle. The rotating connection between the segments allow for an endless exploration of forms. Popular for both its therapeutic value as well as its entertainment factor, the Textured Tangle is an exciting twist among tactile toys!

26

EDUCATION DIRECTORY

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

If you would like to feature your school or child care option, call Tammy at

253-212-7270

BE A SCIENTIST. WWW.BROOKSTONESCHOOL.ORG

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR FALL 2016

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com EDUCATION DIRECTORY

SCHWOB MUSIC PREP SCHWOB SCHOOL OF MUSIC PREPARATORY DIVISION

Music lessons and classes for children and adults

REGISTER NOW FOR: Private lessons on all major instruments, beginner to advanced Group classes, Suzuki, Kindermusik Voices of the Valley Youth Choral Group CONTEMPO Community Choir

Whole Steps: Music Classes for Students with Autism PROFESSIONAL INSTRUCTORS WORLD-CLASS FACILITIES AFFORDABLE TUITION SCHOLARSHIPS

ColumbusState.edu/MusicPrep

706-641-5124

Building a strong foundation for life.

As a parent, you want what’s best for your child. It’s your heart’s desire. At St. Luke, it’s our commitment. With a mission to develop the mind, body and spirit through outstanding academics and activities in a faith-based environment, we are providing a strong foundation for success – at the next level of education and beyond. From Preschool to our Early Learning Center to St. Luke School, our calling is to prepare and inspire your child to excel, wherever life takes them.

Visit school.stlukeum.com to learn more.

318 11th Street | 706-256-1301 ST.LUKE SCHOOL

|

EARLY LEARNING CENTER

|

PRESCHOOL

27

28

EDUCATION DIRECTORY Š2015 Kumon North America, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

WE MAKE YOUR SMART KID EVEN SMARTER!

Schedule a Parent Orientation today!

Kumon Math & Reading Center of

COLUMBUS - NORTH

1290 Double Churches Rd., Ste. K

706.257.6963

kumon.com/columbus-north

Calvary Christian School K3-12th grade Teaching the Whole Child the Whole Truth A Ministry of Calvary Baptist Church

706.323.0467 CalvaryKnights.com

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com EDUCATION DIRECTORY

HOO’s learning

29

keeping them healthy at school

In the cold, dreary days of winter when kids spend more time inside, it is easy for colds and other illnesses to spread quickly through a classroom at school. Here are steps you can take to help prevent your child from becoming sick or shorten the time your child is sick and out of school.

1. One of the most important ways to prevent catching an illness caused by a virus or bacteria is to have everyone in your family wash their hands frequently. It is not necessary to spend money on antibacterial soap. Regular soap and warm water will lift germs off skin just fine, as long as your child washes for about 30 seconds.

2. Make sure to keep your child hydrated everyday. Making sure you consume enough water is something that is overlooked when the weather gets cold, but it is still a very important step in keeping your immune system strong.

4. Pay attention to nutrition. Offer a variety of nutrient rich foods, such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and yogurt.

Getting enough of the vital nutrients found in these foods will help support your child’s immune system. While taking vitamin C will not help prevent a cold, studies suggest it may help shorten the duration of illness. Always give your child a vitamin C supplement appropriate for his age and weight, since high doses of vitamin C can cause an upset stomach.

5. Keep your child’s vaccinations up to date, including the yearly flu shot.

3. Ensure your child gets enough sleep. Studies have proven that sleep deprivation can weaken the immune system and increase the likelihood of getting sick. Adults need at least seven good hours of sleep, and have younger kids get 10 to 13 hours of sleep.

EARLY ENROLLMENT

DISCOUNTS JAN 31 TOURS DAILY SMALL CLASS SIZES K3-6TH GRADE BEFORE/AFTER CARE MILITARY DISCOUNTS ENRICHMENT & CLUBS •

•

•

2303 DOUBLE CHURCHES, COLUMBUS I 706.323.4441

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

30

HOO’s HUNGRY

butternut squash Mac & cheese

A fresh take on a kid favorite, and another way to “sneak” some veggies in for your picky eaters. And if you are in a hurry, or not up to roasting, they do sell frozen or fresh cubed butternut squash that cooks up in minutes.

DIRECTIONS Cut squash in half lengthwise, remove seeds. Place skin side down on a lined baking sheet. Bake at 400 degrees for 40 minutes or until a fork can pierce the skin easily.

Bring a pot of water to a boil, and cook pasta according to package directions. While it boils, heat a skillet, and oil and onions and cook for 3-5 minutes. Then add garlic and cook for another 2 minutes or so.

Once cooked, scrape squash from its skin, and put in a blender. Add everything but the pasta and blend until smooth. Then pour it into a skillet with the pasta and heat and stir until the mixture is thoroughly combined.

Top with salt, pepper, more parmesan, and enjoy!

Ingredients • 1 medium butternut squash • 12 oz pasta of your choice • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 2 garlic cloves, minced • 1/2 teaspoon curry/ fresh thyme • 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese • salt and pepper to taste

900 Broadway

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

Columbus, GA 31

Jan19 • 7:30 PM

THE SHOW MASHES UP COMIC-BOOK AND RADIO-PLAY FORMATS INTO A ONE-OF-A-KIND THEATRICAL EXPERIENCE!

One Foley Artist: Three Actors: Thousands of Hundreds of sounds Dozens of Characters comic-book panels

Caterpillar crafts and veggie snacks in the Grand Lobby starting at 1:30 pm

JAN 26 • 7:30 PM

Jan 30 • 2:30 PM

Groups of 10 or more save 20% off their tickets. rivercenter.org | 706.256.3612

Tickets Start at $15!

Restrictions, exclusions and additional charges may apply. Subject to availability.

FEB. 18 – 21 H

COLUMBUS CIVIC CENTER

000000

Buy Tickets: Ticketmaster.com • 800-745-3000 • Venue Box Office #DisneyOnIce

DisneyOnIce.com